“Human Tapestry” is a three-dimensional painting running on and off the canvas that measures 6 feet high by 16 feet wide by 24 inches deep. The work is visual prospect for international peace and the continuation of life on our shared planet.

Eleven life-sized figures represent various countries and political ideologies. Each is draped in her own flag, her own nationalism, seemingly separate and distinct from that of any other country. While each flag is a symbol of a reciprocal system of language and customs of the people of an individual nation, it also serves to define geographic boundary lines on the earth.

The flag then becomes a symbol of separatism rather than alliance. Instead of recognizing our common human bonds and celebrating our universality, we see ourselves as isolated and often superior to one another.

Realizing that our human commonality far surpasses any subscription to a particular doctrine or desire to control the earth’s resources may allow us to reach within and beyond our borderlines, eventually eliminating catastrophic hostility and the perceived need for territorial and ideological dominance.

Marsha Glazière is a sculptor and painter currently living and working in Seattle, Washington. She is always in search of inspiration and human connection.

We welcome your reflections, essays, videos, or news items for possible publication on the Being Blog. Submit your entry through our First Person Outreach page.

I love the painting symbolism in this painting and the cmmentary that accompanies it. Seeing ourselves as separate seems to be the crux of humankinds problems. What a lovely representation of reaching beyond our borders.

Visual art is a distinct language which speaks through symbols, aesthetics, color, design, shape.....directly to our emotional mind. This piece is bold and inventive. It achieves a level of sophistication and mastery in its political aim while avoiding a preachiness. Nicely done!